Athletic participation helps students grow, learn, and enjoy themselves while they use and develop their personal, physical, and intellectual skills. RIPCOA values the lessons that have long been taught by athletic participation: the pursuit of excellence through personal development and teamwork, ethical and responsible behavior on the field and off, adherence to the spirit of rules as well as to their letter, leadership and strength of character, and sportsmanship – respect for one’s opponents, acceptance of victory with humility and the acknowledgement of defeat with grace. In seeking to teach these lessons to RI middle school students, RIPCOA strives to instill habits that will lead students to better and healthier lives. While winning is not an end in itself, we believe that the efforts of athletes to be their best will lead them to succeed throughout their lives. With these goals in mind, RIPCOA promotes inclusive participation, a sense of community focusing on a shared experience within competition and opportunities for individual holistic development for each participant, coach and fan.